Demokrata is a political news magazine published in Budapest that was launched in 1997. It is known for its right-wing conservative views.
Media assets
Publishing: Demokrata
State Media Matrix Typology: Captured Private (CaPr)
Ownership and governance
Demokrata is published by the company Magyar Democrat hetilap owned by Andras Bencsik, an influential supporter of the Prime Minister Viktor Orban. He was one of the organizers of the so-called Peace Marches in Budapest in support of the Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Source of funding and budget
Although it was reported years ago that Demokrata used to receive substantial state advertising money (through the Budapest municipality), there is no recent data to prove that the magazine’s budget is in a proportion of at least 50% coming from the state. However, local journalists say that the publication still depends on state ad revenues to survive.
Editorial independence
Demokrata is openly promoting the Hungarian government, particularly the Prime Minister Viktor Orban. In fact, the Prime Minister openly showed his support for the publication, recommending Hungarians to subscribe to the magazine.
There is no domestic statute establishing the independence of Demokrata. The newspaper is led with an iron fist by Andras Bencsik whose editorial policy is visibly designed to support the government. The publication is also known for its extremist stance, often publishing anti-Semitic and pro-Nazi articles.
There is no mechanism of independent assessment or oversight that would validate the independence of Demokrata.
October 2023